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Beginning January 1, 2027, newly issued, renewed, and replacement Florida driver's licenses and state identification cards will include a designation indicating whether the cardholder is a U.S. citizen.

In the middle of one of Florida's biggest building booms, Pasco County just did something remarkable. Pasco County purchased 1,893 acres of land known as 4G Ranch for $68 million — the largest land acquisition in the county's history — with the goal of preserving it from development forever. The acquisition was announced during a June 1 event at the property and is part of the Environmental Lands Acquisition and Management Program.

In the wake of the recent school shooting in Parkland, Governor Rick Scott has unveiled a sweeping, three-part emergency plan to tighten gun laws and protect Florida campuses. The $500-million proposal tackles school safety through a mix of strict firearm restrictions, heavy campus security, and expanded mental health funding.

Pasco County Schools is moving to eliminate close to 500 positions as the district confronts a steady slide in student enrollment — a shift driven less by families leaving the county than by where, and how, local children are being educated.

A major constitutional amendment is headed to Florida voters this November, and for Wesley Chapel homeowners it could mean hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars back in your pocket every year. Here's what the numbers actually look like for Pasco County.

A Pasco County neighborhood is taking an unconventional but science-backed approach to environmental stewardship. The Angeline community in Land O' Lakes recently installed a robotic, AI-equipped beehive system outside its community center, becoming the first master-planned community in Florida to deploy this type of technology. The move is part of a broader effort to support pollinator health at the local level while also providing an educational resource for nearby students

Wesley Chapel, FL — A locally run mobile summer camp is now open for enrollment for the 2026 season, and with only 30 spots available, families in Wesley Chapel are being encouraged to sign up sooner rather than later. The camp, organized by Wesley Chapel's #1 Babysitting Services, kicks off June 1, 2026 and is designed for parents who want more than a drop-off program in a single building. The concept is built around daily excursions and off-site adventures — a different exp

Wesley Chapel / Pasco & Hillsborough Counties, FL — Water restrictions across the Tampa Bay region have entered their most aggressive phase yet, and citations are now being issued immediately — no warnings. If you haven't updated your irrigation schedule, you could already be at risk. Here is a community update for Wesley Chapel and surrounding area residents need to know right now. Community Update: Why the Restrictions Are So Strict This Year The Southwest Florida Water Man

Pasco County, FL — Families across the Wesley Chapel and New Port Richey areas who have children with special needs now have a valuable opportunity before the school year ends. The Pasco Association for Challenged Kids — widely known as P.A.C.K. — is currently accepting applications for its annual summer camp, with a limited number of openings still available for the 2026 session. What Is P.A.C.K. Camp? Summer Camp Openings and Things to Do for Special Needs Families in Pasco

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL — A Night Market is coming to The Shops at Wiregrass on July 25, 2026 — and it's shaping up to be one of the most unique shopping experiences of the summer in Wesley Chapel. Night markets bring a completely different energy to the Wiregrass footprint — vendors, local makers, food, and atmosphere after dark in one of Wesley Chapel's most walkable outdoor settings. For residents who love the Wiregrass Fresh Market but want something with more of an evening vib

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL — Summer isn't even in full swing yet, but it's never too early to lock in the best back-to-school events. The Back to School Blast is happening on Saturday, July 25, 2026, starting at 10:00 AM at The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. The annual event is one of the most popular family days of the summer at Wiregrass, bringing together activities, giveaways, entertainment, and community vendors all in one walkable outdoor setting. It's the kind of event th

TAMPA, FL — America turns 250 this July Fourth, and Tampa is going all out for it. Liberty by the Bay is the city's free, family-friendly celebration at Julian B. Lane Park on July 4, running from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM along the Tampa waterfront. Tampa is sending 250 drones into the sky to honor 250 years of American independence — one drone per year of the country's existence. Add a massive fireworks show over the water, live music, food trucks, and one of the most scenic water

TAMPA, FL — The wait is finally over for sushi lovers. O-Ku, the highly-anticipated Japanese restaurant known for its upscale atmosphere and fresh, innovative menu, officially opens its doors today in Bayshore Gardens. This is a major addition to the Tampa Bay dining scene, offering a refined experience that focuses on traditional Japanese techniques with a modern twist. If you’re planning a date night or a special dinner out, this is likely to be the new "it" spot in the reg

TAMPA, FL — Just a short drive from Wesley Chapel, the face of downtown Tampa is about to change again. Developers have officially outlined a huge expansion for Water Street Tampa, including a brand-new entertainment district that will further connect the city to the waterfront. This next phase of development is set to include more walkable retail, high-end dining, and public spaces designed for major events. For Wesley Chapel residents who frequently head south for weekend f

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL — As Wesley Chapel continues to explode in population, a brand-new educational option is officially on the way. The Discovery Academy of Science has been approved to open a new charter school right here in our community, bringing a high-tech curriculum designed for the next generation of students. This isn't your average neighborhood school. The academy is known for its heavy emphasis on STEM, technology, and even integrating AI into the learning process — p

Tampa Bay Area, FL — A major step forward for one of the region's most debated infrastructure projects: Hillsborough County commissioners voted 5-2 Wednesday to approve a non-binding memorandum of understanding that clears the path for continued negotiations on a proposed new Tampa Bay Rays stadium in West Tampa. The proposed development comes with an estimated price tag of $2.3 billion and would be structured as a public-private partnership. What the Vote Actually Approves I

Wesley Chapel / New Port Richey, FL — A nonprofit organization with deep roots in Pasco County is making a significant push to combat homelessness this year, opening several new residential buildings across the region as demand for affordable housing continues to climb. St. Vincent de Paul CARES, which operates with the goal of making homelessness rare across the Tampa Bay area, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday for the newest addition to its Ozanam Village campus in N

A struggling affordable housing complex in East Tampa is finally getting the overhaul tenants have long demanded, though not without some legitimate concerns about what happens to families while construction is underway. Developer Fairstead has announced plans to acquire and completely renovate Silver Oaks Apartments, a 200-unit Section 8 community that has been a flashpoint for tenant complaints for years. The total investment comes to $54.7 million and covers everything fro

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL — If you've been meaning to try something creative this spring, there are still a few sessions left. Powercolor: Color Concepts for All Media is running every Tuesday through June 2, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, 4110 Avalon Park Blvd. Led by local artist Sally Yoder, the class is designed for beginners and experienced artists alike — no background required, just a willingness to experiment with color. All supplies are included, BYOB

State-Approved Turnaround Plan Gives Pasco District Options as Gulf View Middle Faces Critical Year For the third consecutive year, Gulf View Middle School in Pasco County has received a D letter grade from the state — and officials are now weighing some of the most significant intervention options the Florida education system allows. The State Board of Education has given the Pasco County School District formal approval to pursue an outside turnaround company if the school f